Episode 441 - A Light Within Dark Times

Jun 25, 2025

Explore an ancient Persian myth that reveals the deep-rooted nature of conflict and its psychological impact on society. Discover how poetry and art can serve as beacons of hope during turmoil. Delve into creation myths that highlight doubt as a catalyst for growth and insight. Learn about the importance of healing divisions to foster lasting peace. Embrace the tensions of life, where fear and beauty coexist, driving creativity and connection even in challenging times.

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ANECDOTE

Morning of Uncertainty and Poetry

Michael Meade woke with uncertainty, edged by sadness and fear of disappointment after hearing about a possible ceasefire between Israel and Iran.
He reflects on Rumi's poem, suggesting embracing beauty and grounding amid fear and doubt.

INSIGHT

Myths Reveal Deep Truths

Myths reveal deeper truths beyond factual disputes, illuminating causes of conflict and meaning in life.
They help find moments of wholeness amid fear, uncertainty, and loss.

INSIGHT

Persian Myth of Creation and Conflict

An ancient Persian creation myth features a divine mistake and original doubt spawning twin deities: Ormads (light) and Ariman (darkness).
Conflict arises from Ariman attacking Ormads with lies, symbolizing eternal opposition between order and chaos.

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On this episode of Michael Meade recounts a myth from ancient Persia, the name by which Iran was known for centuries. The ancient tale predates all historical hostilities and battles in the Middle East and offers surprising insights into the origins and nature of the kind of conflict that can plunge whole peoples and entire epochs into darkness.

Way back at the beginning, the original clash of opposite forces and the presence of great uncertainty about the future of life entered the world together. The force of chaos and darkness attacks the principle of order and creation using the weapons of lies and aggression. However, that is not the end of the story, but rather a critical turning point in which a greater sense of consciousness and a deeper sense of wisdom can shift the balance back to the process of creation.

The primary problem is that breaking the tension of opposing forces requires that the original split in life must become more conscious. No true healing unless the original split is touched. No true changes without a moment of wholeness that can offset the underlying doubts and projections of guilt and blame. No lasting treaty unless those claiming to create peace already have peace in their hearts.

Only then can it be understood that the effect of an elemental opposition is to generate a deeper sense of meaning and a greater sense of understanding that does not simply stop the hostilities, but also stimulates life itself. Creation is the only outcome of conflict that can satisfy the soul.

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